Becoming a Fertility Advocate
Many states are gearing up for their 2021 legislative sessions and with that comes grassroots work on advancing insurance coverage for infertility care and cancer preservation. Now more than ever your story needs to be heard.
Becoming a Fertility Advocate
Many states already have grassroots work started and simply need to hear from you. Sharing your story for this cause can come in many forms. Many have shared their walk-through infertility for the first time through legislative initiatives. If there are no legislative initiatives in your state at all, I encourage you to be the one to make this happen, no experience needed at all other than your passion to share your story and help others.
Two organizations help with infertility advocacy, Fertility Within Reach and Resolve.
They have developed ways to approach the legislative process, formulated tools kits, and work with you to increase the effectiveness of your communication with your legislators. In addition to legislative efforts, they also work to help empower employees and employers to work together at adding fertility insurance coverage to their workplace.
If you are ready to become a fertility advocate step one is reaching out to one of these organizations to see if they are aware of grassroots work being done in your state.
Many of these groups are formed on Facebook and terms such as “(state name) fertility advocates” may also lead you to them. These groups consist of constituents who are already advocating for legislation. They are a group of individuals just like you oftentimes with no legislation education or knowledge but with fierce passion and a drive to make a change. They have come together to join voices, stories, connections, and research to create change and improve family building options in their state. Sounds just like you!
Step two is sitting down at your computer and letting whatever comes to your fingers become the start of your sharing journey. Start typing your story and any emotions that come along with it. Don’t second guess anything that comes, let it out for the world to hear. They are your experiences and feelings, and they are valid. Deciding to share your infertility story can be one of the most challenging and healing decisions you make. Many individuals note that once they get the words to the paper they are overcome with a sense of relief and healing. Don’t be surprised if you cry while doing this and need to take a break, this is normal. Your story is worthy. Your feeling are worthy. You are worthy!
Step three is to follow the call to actions that come from your state initiatives. As your state bill works its way through legislation, there will be call to actions made that will require quick and timely action. This may be using a template provided to send an email or making a phone call to your district legislator. Next, you will share this ask with all your family and friends and have them do the same thing. There is power in numbers and when they see several emails with the same issue, they can’t ignore that. This may occur multiple times during a legislative session.
I encourage you to consider doing an in-person testimony. This will be life changing and one of the most empowering things you have ever done. Crying is expected and completely normal! If you need help walking through this process, I would be happy to assist you and virtually hold your hand through the process. Fertility Within Reach and Resolve are excellent resources and available to help.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
